May Green, CPA, accept a fee based on the outcome of a case as an expert witness?

In the context of CPA ethics and professional conduct, a CPA may not accept a fee based on the outcome of a case as an expert witness. This principle is rooted in maintaining objectivity and independence, which are crucial for the credibility of the CPA's testimony and the integrity of the profession.

Expert witness fees that are contingent upon the outcome of a case can create conflicts of interest and compromise the CPA's ability to provide impartial testimony. The concern is that if a CPA stands to gain or lose financially based on the verdict of a case, their objectivity could be questioned, affecting the reliability of their expertise. This is in line with the ethical standards set forth by the AICPA and other regulatory bodies, which emphasize the importance of maintaining independence in both appearance and fact.

Other considerations in this topic touch upon the nuanced understanding of different types of clients. In situations involving attest clients, the prohibition against contingent fees is firm. For non-attest services, while there may be more flexibility, the principles of independence and objectivity remain paramount. Thus, the clear stance is that CPA professionals should avoid any fee arrangements that may compromise their integrity or the perception of their impartiality.